Why the change is needed:Shortly after the stream strategy implementation, a comprehensive winter steelhead census was conducted on the Nooksack River in order to devise a methodology to estimate escapement on any given year. It was discovered that in the South Fork, 60% of the total spawning was occurring in Hutchinson Creek alone. Basin wide, Hutchinson Creek had 17% of the total winter steelhead escapement. Given the purpose of the stream strategy was to protect juvenile anadromous fishes while rearing, steelhead juveniles in particular, and the high density of steelhead spawning in Hutchinson Creek, closing for protection of rearing steelhead is consistent with the intent of the stream strategy concept.

Names of individuals or groups with whom you have discussed this change:Ned Currence, Nooksack Indian Tribe. Region4 Bio's

Describe their support and/or concerns:
Support, for the same reasons given.

ExplanationShortly after the stream strategy implementation, a comprehensive winter steelhead census was conducted on the Nooksack River in order to devise methods to estimate escapement on any given year. It was discovered that in the South Fork, 60% of the total spawning was occurring in Hutchinson Creek alone. Basin wide, Hutchinson Creek had 17% of the total winter steelhead escapement. Given the purpose of the stream strategy was to protect juvenile anadromous fishes while rearing, steelhead juveniles in particular, and the high density of steelhead spawning in Hutchinson Creek, closing for protection of rearing steelhead is consistent with the intent of the stream strategy concept.